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North Carolina House passes bill restricting DEI programs in state agencies
Summary
The House passed House Bill 171, which prohibits certain diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs and limits use of public funds for them, with civil penalties for violations; the measure cleared the chamber after extended debate and will be sent to the Senate.
The North Carolina House on the floor passed House Bill 171, titled "Equality in State Agencies," after an extended, often emotional debate that split members across party lines.
Sponsor Representative Jones described the measure as a restoration of merit‑based hiring and an end to taxpayer‑funded programs that he said "promote, support and maintain workplace DEI programs." He told colleagues that the bill does not ban cultural celebrations or academic instruction and that criminal penalties were removed from the final text, though a civil fine of up to $10,000 remains for knowingly maintaining prohibited programs.
Opponents said the bill would chill programs that aim to reduce barriers and argued it would remove tools used by employers and educational institutions to recruit and retain underrepresented talent. Representative Hawkins said the proposal risks "put[ting] our reputation at risk for wanting and being able to recruit the high quality talent" the state needs; Representative Quicke warned the measure is "anti diversity, anti equity, and anti inclusion." Representative Lofton and others urged lawmakers not to craft law to fit a particular officeholder, saying statutory limits should be principle‑based and durable.
Several lawmakers pressed the sponsor on federal funding implications and whether the bill could jeopardize grants that require particular practices. The sponsor replied that federal law would continue to trump state law and that the bill was written to preserve federally required activity.
The House committee substitute to House Bill 171 passed second reading 68–45 and, after a roll call on third reading, was ordered sent to the Senate.
What happens next: The measure will go to the North Carolina Senate for consideration. If the Senate approves it as written, it would move to the governor for signature or veto.
